Heater displays E08 and refuses to start; may be accompanied by no fan or pump signal.

Safety first: Turn off power at the breaker and verify no voltage is present before opening the control compartment.

Step-by-step checks:

• Inspect control compartment: Remove the front panel and inspect the Pahlen control board area for signs of water intrusion, condensation, or insect nests. Dry any moisture with a clean cloth and allow the area to air dry completely.
• Check all connectors: Gently press on all multi-pin connectors and terminal blocks on the control board to ensure they are fully seated. Look for burnt or discolored components.
• Power cycle: After ensuring everything is dry and connected, restore power and perform a full power cycle (off for at least 2–3 minutes, then on). See if the error clears.
• Surge protection: If the error appeared after a storm or power event, consider adding an external surge protector to the heater's supply once repairs are complete.

When to stop: If E08 persists, the control board is likely defective and must be replaced or reprogrammed by an authorized Pahlen service provider.